New York Liberty Star

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JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR *

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NEW YORKERS' FIRST CHOICE FOR CARIBBEAN NEWS TM

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JUNE 18 - JULY 1, 2009 Copyright © 2006, New York Liberty Star

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CARIBBEAN NEWS

PRESIDENT SAYS NO TO UNFAIR TREATMENT

PRESIDENT BHARRAT JAGDEO stressed that he will not permit Guyanese to be unfairly treated anywhere. Page 21

ENTERTAINMENT

HARRY GIVES PEACE PROPS TO WYCLEFF

HARRY BELAFONTE passes on torch in the struggle for peace and human dignity to Haitian star Wyclef Jean

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VOL. 9 ISSUE 164

SEE FULL STORY, PAGE 4


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C CO ON TE N NT TS S NT POSITIVE OUTLOOK

MISLEADING

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BOLT NABS 100M WIN IN TORONTO

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JN HEAD SEES CRIME FALL

Earl Jarrett is asserting that despite the consistently high crime rate in Jamaica, the trend will fall. UNFAIR TREATMENT

BIRD OFFERS UP SALARY Attorney General Justin Simon dismissed Lester Bird’s offer to forgo his salary.

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CALL FOR REAL JOBS

(Cover photo by Sharon Bennett)

JAGDEO LASHES OUT

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President Jagdeo stressed that he will not permit Guyanese to be unfairly treated anywhere.

GLOBAL INITIATIVE Jamaica called for the establishment of a global development initiative.

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HARRY GIVES PEACE PROPS TO WYCLEF Eighty-two year-old Jamaican-American recording star, actor and humanitarian, Harry Belafonte, believes he could not pass on the torch in the struggle for peace and human dignity to a better person than Wyclef Jean.

Prominent Jamaican Doctor Bids To Make Changes In Brooklyn BROOKLYN, NY -- It will not be “politics as usual” when the 2009 race for Brooklyn’s 45th City Council District (East Flatbush, Flatbush, Flatlands, Canarsie, Midwood) comes around. Eyes are focused on Dr. Dexter McKenzie— a medical doctor; educator; community organizer and long-time Brooklyn resident—who vows to bring a “new voice, new vision and new hope to the Brooklyn community. When asked to explain his campaign slogan Dr. McKenzie asserted that while his is a “new voice” to politics he has been more than a familiar voice in community service. Dr. McKenzie emigrated from humble beginnings in Kingston, Jamaica to the United States during childhood, and has lived in Brooklyn since 1971. He was educated by the New York City public school system and earned degrees in chemistry, pharmacy and medicine. He has a community-based medical practice and serves as Assistant Professor of Medicine at S.U.N.Y Downstate. Dr. McKenzie is health committee chairman for the Brooklyn NAACP as well as the New York National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS. He is also President of the Provident Clinical Society of Brooklyn—a century-old organization representing the collective voice of Brooklyn’s minority physicians. Through these and other organizations Dr. McKenzie has developed a track record of direct community involvement including

mentorship and scholarship programs; science club formation in public schools; senior citizenyouth twinning program; community education initiatives and health projects; business development programs; immigrant workshops; criminal justice, civic engagement and arts and culture initiatives. According to Dr. McKenzie, “When you are a true public servant, you do the work for the love of human service and the sense of self-worth that it brings, never for celebrity. So, because I did not seize upon photo opportunities or call media attention to myself does not mean the work was not being performed. Those who have been touched by my efforts know of my good intention, commitment and dedication and will support my effort to assure that this new voice is heard. Supporters of Dr. McKenzie speak of a “new vision” and usually make reference a biblical verse from the book of Proverbs, “Where there is no vision the people perish”. According to Dr. McKenzie, having a vision is indispensable to achieving our goals. “Everything that we aspire to achieve begins with a thought. Then, that thought gets refined into a vision—something you can see through your mind’s eye. Once we can see it, then it’s a matter of subjecting that vision to the “will” so it can become manifest”, he said. Dr. McKenzie was asked to share his vision for the 45th District.

NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR EDITORIAL STAFF LENECIA HINES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF IVROL HINES MANAGING EDITOR DAVID LESTER ART DIRECTOR PAUL HAUGHTON COMMUNITY RELATIONS LIASON MODUPE GILLES EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CARLE MOORE VICE PRESIDENT SALES & MARKETING JOAN GOBOURNE SALES ASSOCIATE

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www.nylibertystar.com Dr. Dexter McKenzie (right), Candidate for Brooklyn's 45th Councilmanic District, greets a bus driver in front of his Ave D campaign office. “I see a community with a welldeveloped culture of education where young people are reconnected to the possibility of success via a functioning education system and vocation training. I see these young people being guided by the wisdom of their elders via mentorship and apprentice programs. Out of these teachings emerge adults with strong family values, work ethic and a sense of community”, said Dr. McKenzie. He continued, “I see small businesses thriving and providing economic stability as well as access to health insurance for their employees”. I see a community where individuals regard their

health as a precious gift and commit to preventive care; regular exercise; better eating habits and abstinence from illicit drugs, tobacco and excess alcohol consumption. I see a community enjoying a well-deserved quality of life where the streets are clean, quiet and safe; recreational spaces are adequate and a general sense of wellbeing pervades”. Dr. McKenzie said hope is essential to the community’s will to strive and he believes that leadership should embody that hope. Dr. Dexter McKenzie, MD is a 2009 candidate for the New York City Council, 45th Council District.

New York Liberty Star welcomes letters from readers and press releases. We reserve the right to edit all materials, in keeping with publication standards. To submit an article, send email to: nylibertystar@yahoo.com. Hours of operation: M-F, 9 a.m. 5 p.m. All material due by 4 p.m., Monday of publication week. The New York Liberty Star is not responsible for typographical errors in ads beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Copyright New York Liberty Star 2001. All rightsreserved / Ivrol D. Hines.

SERVING NEW YORK CITY PUBLISHED BIWEEKLY


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feature Leaders See Positive Outlook How To Stop Losing Sleep Over Money Worries You can quickly build tremendous streams of income resulting in a continuous money machine you can rely on, if you follow this prudent approach. Just develop and implement multiple marketing concepts – have them all happen at once so that one efficiently feeds the other. Test and compare one strategy with another, improve what is working and throw out what does not work and then move on to another technique. Far too many business owners are unwilling to try different marketing and advertising approaches. They get attached to one thing; let’s say email marketing, and overlook the fact that there are several other income streams they could use. What about endorsements? You can use a series of influential consumer blogs to promote awareness by the bloggers to their audience. You can easily present shoppers with multiple opportunities to buy more at your store or website by using add-on sale techniques. Once the sale has been made what is the harm in seeing if the client would like something complimentary to their purchase. Realistically, not every visitor who lands on your website or enters your store will be interested in your primary offering. Never let customers or prospects leave without profiting from them. After all, you worked very hard and spent a lot of money building your customer and prospect lists, right? Form joint venture partnerships that have products and services that may be more suited to the needs of these prospects. How about a referral system? Turning your customers into a life long sales force for your business. How about bartering? What about up-selling? Exposing the customer to other options he or she may not have considered previously, resulting in a more profitable sale. You are cheating yourself if you focus on only one or two streams of business. More importantly your business could collapse if you don’t try to open up other channels. The key is to never be dependent on any one-income source. Markets change. Competition is fierce and companies fail, even great ones. All your eggs in one basket is a high-risk strategy. By diversifying, your revenues increase, your business is more stable, and you are in charge of your business destiny. No longer does a single marketing strategy income offer the security it once did. The concept of multiple streams of income, build a more secure financial base for you. The fundamental role of multiple sources of revenues is to create value for businesses. The additional value is created through a synergetic integration of new revenues into the existing one thereby increasing its competitive advantage. Sustainable competitive advantage should be the focal point of your overall business strategy. It allows the protection and improvement of your enterprise’s competitive position in the market. It is an advantage that will enable your business to survive against its competition over a long period of time.

NEW YORK, NY -- Earl Jarrett, General Manager of Jamaica National, is asserting that despite the consistently high crime rate in Jamaica, the trend will fall because of the social initiatives and policy changes being implemented in the island state. He contends that the current statistics should not be a deterrent to Jamaicans living overseas who want to invest in Jamaica. Jarrett, who was speaking at a cocktail reception, ahead of the JNBS Outlook for the Future forum in New York, June 5, argued that the decline is “the inevitable surprise.” “The fight against crime is long-term, and the government continues to make headway in curbing this monster,” he stated. “Legislation has been passed to make electronic evidence admissible in court and just recently several police officers were arrested for corruption and the Police Commissioner moved for the retiring of several members of the police force in the public interest.” The JNBS General Manager said these were positive signs that the government is taking hold of the debilitating situation. While conceding that the crime statistics were a cause for concern, he argued that social and economic initiatives of the government “implemented to improve the economic and social conditions of the country will, in the long term, reduce crime.” Mr. Jarrett holds that the decline was

Mr. Earl Jarrett, General Manager of Jamaican National Building Society (JNBS), at the Marriott Hotel, downtown Brooklyn on Friday. (Photo by Sharon Bennett)

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett (right); makes a point during the interactive session (Q & A), at Saturday’s forum on the Jamaican economy, sponsored and hosted by Jamaica National Overseas, at the York College Performing Arts Center, downtown Jamaica, Queens. The panel included; Mrs. Lisa Bell, Deputy President/Jamaica Trade & Invest, formerly JAMPRO; Mrs. Geneive Brown Metzger, Consul General of Jamaica in New York; Rev. Canon Calvin McIntyre, Senior Pastor, Good Shepherd Church, Bronx and Mr. Irwine Clare, Sr., Managing Director/Caribbean Immigrant Services, Inc. (Photo by Sharon Bennett) inevitable, citing social policy changes and government initiatives including the widening of social safety net and educational reform. “The spin-off of initiatives such as these has steadily been resulting in incremental improvement in the educational and economic status of our people,” he told the group. He informed the attendees about the establishment of the Young Entrepreneur Programme (YEP), being launched by the Government to encourage and fund small and micro businesses among almost 60,000 tertiary graduates leaving school in July. Mr. Jarrett said that investors should look closely at these and other development indicators and not be deterred by the crime statistics. He listed several direct investment opportunities in areas including agriculture, entertainment and transport, which are suited to Jamaicans in the Diaspora; and pointed out that despite declining global trends,

Jamaica’s tourism arrivals were increasing. “The tourism sector is rife with opportunity, and investments from overseas will yield positive results,” he declared. “Jamaica’s banking system is closely monitored and heavily regulated. The Bank of Jamaica has established a strong framework to protect Jamaican depositors, and to ensure the security of the financial sector.” “The successful development of our country is intertwined with the harnessing of resources from the Diaspora,” he concluded. The reception was a part of the Outlook series of events, which are being held to facilitate dialogue with Jamaicans in the Diaspora and are hosted under the theme “Economic Imperatives for Jamaica 2009.” The reception was attended by the Hon. Geneive Brown Metzger, Jamaican Consul General in New York; Hon. Nick Perry, New York State Assemblyman; and several other Jamaican government and business leaders living in the ‘Big Apple’.


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Jus' Juice's All Natural Flavor Charms Brooklynites By Carle Moore Nostrand Avenue Brooklyn has always been the home to the best of things Caribbean! The Avenue, one of the most essential in the Brooklyn business hub, now boasts one of New York’s most popular upscale hangouts – Jus Juice! Sandwiched between Linden Boulevard and Martense Street at 1403 Nostrand Avenue, Jus’ Juice is the new talk of the town. This ultra modern natural juice bar offers a bold invitation to come, relax, excite and entertain your palate, while nourishing the body, with the best in organic shakes, smoothies and freshly squeezed juices.

For those who dig an eclectic atmosphere, Jus’ Juice is the place for a well-deserved break while treating yourself. One can always keep pace with life at the Jus’ Juice Internet Café, a must if they have as many e-mails as I do. Immaculate surroundings, a genuinely friendly, courteous staff awaits you every day from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm Monday thru Thursday, and on Fridays and Saturdays until midnite. Leonardo Wint, a local health buff, recommends that Brooklynites take time out and make sure they pay a visit to Jus’ Juice, Brooklyn’s #1 upscale all natural Juice Bar & Internet Café, definitely one of the places you need to go.


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JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR *

Bird’s Offer To Give Up Salary Misleading ST JOHN’S, Antigua -- Attorney General Justin Simon on Tuesday dismissed Opposition Leader Lester Bird’s offer to forgo his salary saying it is not the “supreme sacrifice” that he has made it out to be. Bird said he has written to the Accountant General indicating his intention to forgo his salary in protest of the socio-economic policies of the Antigua and Barbuda government. “In these difficult times when the government has not paid many public servants on time, and have laid off many others, I believe that it is right that all political leaders should make a sacrifice,” Bird said in his letter. “In the circumstances, I am foregoing my salary as Leader of the Opposition. I intend to live on the pension that I have been receiving over the last five years,” the former Prime Minister added. But Simon, in a statement, said Bird is forbidden by law to receive his pension as a former Prime Minister, in addition to his salary as Opposition Leader, adding that is “a fact of which he must or, at least, should know. Bird started to draw a pension after he lost his seat at the 2004 general election, which saw the United Progressive Party (UPP) defeat his Antigua Labour Party (ALP) and ended its 28-year grip on government. “He appears to be under the mistaken impression that he is legally entitled to both the pension and the salary which in aggregate amount to much more than the current salary of any parliamentarian. In fact, his pension alone equals the salary of the Prime Minister and is more than that of any other minister of government,” the

Hotelier’s Body Found Hanging BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – A former president of the Barbados Hotel Association (BHA) was found dead at his home on Tuesday. The body of Alfred Taylor, 65, was reportedly found hanging from the ceiling at his Marine Gardens residence in Christ Church, south of the capital. Taylor was a well-known hotelier who managed several properties in Barbados including Rockley Resort and Sandy Beach. He also managed properties in other Caribbean islands. He co-owned and operated the South Sea Restaurant. Taylor, a former president of the Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA), also served as BHA president in the early 1980s and was a director of the Barbados Turf Club. Taylor leaves behind a wife and two children.

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Attorney General said. “It must also be borne in mind that whilst his salary is liable to deductions in respect of education levy and personal income tax, his pension is not. “Given all of these facts and his misunderstanding of his legal entitlement, Mr. Bird’s offer of giving up his salary may not be the “supreme sacrifice” that he has made it appear to be,” Simon said. He said that the Pension and Gratuities (Parliamentary and Special Offices) Act, Cap. 322 speaks definitively to the issue. “Section 3 provides that every person who has held the office of Prime Minister for one full term or for an aggregate of five years and ceases to hold that office shall be paid a pension which shall ‘subject to subsection (2) and section 16…’ continue to be paid during the lifetime of that person.” “Subsection (2) is important and relevant to the offer so generously made by the Hon. Leader of the Opposition in a recent Press Release. It provides that where the person who is in receipt of a Prime Minister’s pension becomes entitled to a salary as a parliamentarian, the pension shall ‘cease to be payable during any period in respect of which that person is in receipt of salary as a legislator or as a Prime Minister’. Simon said that if Bird’s pension as former Prime Minister was EC$12,500 (US$4,665), and the current Opposition Leader’s salary is EC$6,000 (US$2,240), Bird will receive his salary as Opposition Leader along with entertainment and travel allowances and an additional amount of EC$6,500 (US$2,425) – which represents the difference between his higher pension and his current salary.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysi -- With time now running out on countries to meet the 2015 target date set by the United Nations for universal primary education, the Commonwealth says some countries are falling woefully short but others, such as those in the Caribbean, have made significant advances in the field of learning. “I would say that in relative terms, compared to the Asian region, African, the Caribbean is moving very well,” said Fatiha Serour, director of the Commonwealth Youth Affairs Division. “Certainly from my experience, I think they have very high standards." “In fact, for me, the Caribbean and parts of Asia are really the protectors of standard as far as education I concerned,” she added. Her comments came as Education Ministers from across the 53-nation Commonwealth were preparing for a meeting here in Kuala Lumpur under the theme “Education in the Commonwealth: Towards and Beyond Global Goals and Targets”. The Deputy Secretary General Ransford Smith used the occasion to remind member states of their commitments to the globally agreed yardsticks of achieving universal primary education, as well as equalling the numbers of boys and girls in primary and secondary schools by 2015. “They are uniquely important, in that

Missing School Girl Found Dead PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - A 10year-old school girl, reported missing over the weekend, has been found dead in the volatile Laventille area, police confirmed Wednesday. Tecia Henry, a pupil of the St. Rose's Girls' RC School, disappeared while on an errand to a mini-mart on the outskirts of the capital last Saturday morning. Media reports said that her body had been found by workers employed with CEPEP, a Government run-work programme. Police had been reviewing footage from a nearby closed circuit television camera for clues leading to the schoolgirl’s disappearance and on Tuesday, Crime Stoppers offered a TT$10,000 (US$1,660) reward for information concerning her whereabouts. Flyers had also been posted in Port of Spain seeking assistance.

Rev. Dr. Paul Lewis Charges With Sexual Abuse

Antigua & Barbuda's opposition Leader Lester Bird offered to forgo his salary in protest.

Caribbean Nations Progress In Education By Kaymar Jordan

Briefs

REGIONAL

they are embraced by developed and developing countries alike. “They are supplemented by the goals of the ‘EFA’, Education for All, that go beyond the MDGs (Millenium Development Goals) in addressing issues of quality,” he said, while urging those who are presently lagging behind to get moving. It is a message that was not lost on Barbados Education Minister Ronald Jones, who is attending the Kuala Lumpur meeting, even though he said his country has surpassed the global target and is now looking beyond the UN goals. “In fact, Barbados’ input rates are 100 per cent at the primary level. It is not yet 100 per cent at the pre-primary level but we are working towards that. “At the secondary level, I am a bit concerned that we try to achieve a 100 per cent students input but there are persons 13-14, who because of their behaviour and attitude that there is some filtering out of the system.” But he said the major issue was not the rates which we input, it is the quality of the output at the end of the day. Jones said the current focus was on improving discipline in schools as well as curriculum expansion and development. He said Barbados, which has compulsory education up to age 16, was also looking at extending the age up to 18.

KINGSTON, Jamaica -- The Jamaican-born international pastor who allegedly gave two teenaged girls money in exchange for sexual favours is now appearing before the Savanala-mar Resident Magistrates Court in Westmoreland answering charges. The police charged the Reverend Dr Paul Lewis this afternoon with carnal abuse and indecent assault following an interrogation which lasted for over two hours. The Reverend Dr Lewis was arrested at a crusade in Little London after he allegedly had sex with a 15 year old girl and kissed and fondled a 14 year old on Saturday. According reports, Dr Lewis met the 14 year old girl at the crusade and exchanged numbers. It’s alleged that he invited the girl to go with him on a trip to Clarendon. The teenager then asked her 15 year old friend to accompany her. The police said while on the journey the pastor fondled and kissed both of the girls. He later reportedly took the girls to a hotel in Negril on his return to Westmoreland where it’s alleged that he had sex with the 15 year old twice while the other teenager watched. He then gave them $5 thousand and $3 thousand each. Residents who saw the pastor with the girls got suspicious and called the police. The girls who were reportedly questioned admitted to the allegations. The Reverend Dr Lewis is a Jamaican who migrated to the United States at the age of twelve. He pursued a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biblical Studies and Theology and posts on his website that he plans to pursue an MBA in Theology and a Doctorate in Divinity. Reverend Dr Lewis is an ordained Minister who is the founder and President of The Messengers For Christ Ministries World Healing Center based in New York. His Ministry has other offices in Jamaica, Barbados, Antigua, Trinidad, The United Kingdom and Germany.

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War On Police Leaves Businessman Dead President Bharrat Jagdeo stressed that he will not permit Guyanese to be unfairly treated anywhere.

Jagdeo Says He Will Not Stand By And See Guyanese Treated Unfairly GEORGETOWN, Guyana -At an interactive media session held at the CARICOM Secretariat, Turkeyen on June 12, President Bharrat Jagdeo stressed that he will not permit Guyanese to be unfairly treated anywhere. He was, at the time, responding to concerns raised about the treatment of Guyanese nationals by the Barbadian immigration authorities. The President explained that he spoke to Barbadian Prime Minister David Thompson at the recent CARICOM meeting in Trinidad and Tobago on the matter, relaying information provided by Guyana’s Honourary Consul in Barbados, particularly with the manner that Guyanese were alleged to be treated. In response, Thompson stated that he was unaware of such treatment and has expressed his willingness to meet Guyana’s Honourary Consul in Barbados to discuss and investigate any such case. The Barbadian Prime Minister has stressed that his only concern is dealing with undocumented individuals. He noted that the system is much more complex than the immigration issue, and some countries (like Barbados) benefit from exporting capital and goods to others within the region and get large sums of money repatriated

and benefit from large trade deficits in their favour. So complaining that Guyanese are ‘putting stress on the social security system’ is not a valid excuse for unfair treatment. A more holistic view is needed. “I’ve been trying to be a bit more cautious and balanced but that doesn’t mean that I will not defend Guyanese interests,” the Head of State said. At a press conference on May 22, the President had urged that Heads of Government of CARICOM must persuade the Barbadian Government to change its policy towards nationals of other CARICOM States living and working in Barbados. “Unless we can change their position on the issue then I expect that many nationals of many countries will continue to be subjected to this treatment in Barbados … treatment that doesn’t reflect the spirit of what we are trying to build in this Region,” the Head of State said. He had noted the calls from the opposition parties for a longterm solution to the issue and said that Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon, has been mandated to meet with them to get their ideas for solutions to the issue with a view of bringing an end to the situation.

CASTRIES, ST Lucia -- Police have arrested five people after gunmen stormed the home of a 56year-old businessman, killing him and injuring four others in the west coast village of Anse-La- Raye on Monday night. Police Commissioner Ausbert Regis said that the murder of Ramchan Adjodha appears to be linked to the spate of recent killings in the capital and was confident that the police would “bring this matter to a speedy conclusion”. Five persons were murdered during the past seven days. Adjodha was killed as he and the four others were watching television and police said the five suspects were detained after the vehicle in which they were travelling was intercepted. The police said that a national from St. Vincent and the Grenadines was among those arrested in connection with the murder. Regis said he was also taking “very seriously” threats made against law enforcement officials by suspected criminals and aired on a local television station. Men, some of whom wore masks, made the threats after the police raided the volatile Wilton’s Yard area in the capital on Sunday and arrested 16 people. The men said that they were prepared to take the fight to the police and warned of reprisals and assassinations. The Police Commissioner said that the broadcast was not only inflammatory but illegal, adding that the Attorney General’s Office would be asked to examine the possibility of taking legal action against all those concerned, includ-

ing the television station. “We will be taking action against the gentlemen, the one who is masked we know who he is, as a matter of fact there is history, because he was previously arrested, charged and acquitted because of technicalities for shooting at a police officer, so we are taking the threats seriously. “We will not surrender the country to these vagabonds, we will not succumb to this sort of lawlessness and I am calling on all law abiding citizens to stand up with us against those persons. “We are also considering legal action against the station which broadcast the provocative statements, and to make matters worse, the statements were also broadcast on an affiliated radio station.” Regis said he was disappointed that a radio and television station would air such a broadcast, adding “we expect more responsible behaviour from our media houses here. “When someone has openly threatened to kill police that is not information you would want to carry and encourage. We will therefore discuss with the Attorney General and the Director of Public Prosecutions what action if any or what liabilities if any they carry”. Meanwhile, the St Lucia Tourist Board (SLTB) has expressed concern over the upsurge in criminal activity and gang-related violence on the island. Tourism Director Louis Lewis said the action of a few irresponsible persons could hurt the industry. “It is unfortunate that we are

We will not surrender the country to these vagabonds, we will not succumb to this sort of lawlessness and I am calling on all law abiding citizens to stand up with us against those persons. Police Commissioner Ausbert Regis faced with such a situation at a time when St Lucia is competing with the rest of the world for a shrinking travelling public. While the Board is concerned about the obvious negative implications that this may have on the island’s major income earner, we are even more apprehensive about the impact that is having on the basic security and safety of St. Lucians. “We are aware of the recent initiatives undertaken by the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force to restore public safety and bring to an end to this scourge. We will continue to assist the Police where necessary to ensure that St Lucia remains a safe haven for all,” he added.

Demonstrators Demand Premier Brown Resign HAMILTON, Bermuda -Demonstrators on Tuesday demanded the resignation of Premier Dr. Ewart Brown following his decision to re-settle four former Guantanamo Bay detainees in Bermuda without consulting the Governor or the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in London. Hundreds of people gathered in front of the Premier’s office and demanded his resignation before marching a few meters away where they were later addressed by the Premier, who said he had delayed a meeting with Governor Sir Richard Gozney to listen to the people of Bermuda. The men, Chinese Muslims, called Uighurs, were allowed to resettle in Bermuda, a British Overseas Territory, after they were released from the prison at Guantanamo Bay, where they were held by the United States for seven years but never charged with terrorist activity.

Britain and Sir Richard have expressed their anger that Brown did not consult them and only confided in his cabinet colleague, Home Affairs Minister David Burch, who flew to Bermuda with the Uighurs. London said it would conduct its own security review of the men to ascertain if they can stay on the island and be granted Bermudian citizenship. The opposition United Bermuda Party has already tabled a motion of no-confidence in the Premier and a handful of government legislators have criticised his actions. But not everyone is calling on Brown to step down. LaVerne Furbert, editor of the union newspaper, the Workers’ Voice, organised what she described in an e-mail as a “counterattack”, indicating that the Premier had made clear why he took the decision to offer asylum to the

Uighurs. “I am satisfied with his reasoning and I hope that you are as well. As I see it, you cannot say you don’t have a problem with Bermuda giving asylum to the Uighurs and, at the same time, crucify the man who made it happen. “I am now appealing to my friends and family, and those other Bermudians who support the move by Dr. Brown, to show our support for him on Tuesday as well. In other words, let’s have a counter-attack,” she wrote. But Janice Battersbee, a lifelong supporter of the ruling Progressive Labour Party, told reporters that she wanted to make “absolutely clear that the issue we have is not based on the humanitarian part of this issue, it’s based on the lack of due process in decision making. “We just feel that it's time for the Premier to step down. This is a call for him to resign,” she said.


JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR *

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Caribbean Urged To Look At Positive Values Of Marijuana ST GEORGE’S, Grenada - Caribbean governments are being urged to allow for the cultivation and exportation of marijuana for medical purposes despite it being an illegal drug in all Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries. “People are always talking about the young men on the streets and blocks who are selling marijuana, but what we need to do is to get them involved in agriculture by encouraging them to plant marijuana for the pharmaceutical market,” said Amsale Maryam of the Association of Developmental Agencies in Jamaica. She was contributing to the discussion on “Rural Livelihood” as part of the Caribbean Regional Civil Society Consultation, which is being used to prepare the People’s Forum communiqué for the November 27-29 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). She told the meeting that, for instance, the cocoa plant is used for purposes other than the production of cocaine. “By removing the youths from the streets and getting them involve in the cultivating of marijuana, we will not only see a

reduction in crime but there will be a reduction in violent activities. “This is the approach we have to take because marijuana can bring in some serious revenue,” she said, arguing that for too long “ the entire focus has being on the recreational use but its time we get away from that thinking and think beyond, the pharmaceutical industry need marijuana as a major ingredient for medication”. Barbadian Hermon “Bongo” Lowe said the issue should be placed on the agenda for the CHOGM. “Ganja (marijuana) is and continues to play a role in the development of the Caribbean and this needs to be discussed. “I believe that once the right approach is adopted, ganja has the potential the change the outlook for the Caribbean. Not only will it help with creating agricultural and other high paying jobs but we can actually create a huge industry out of this.” Lowe said he has research on the issue and is satisfied that marijuana can bring significant revenue to the region. “Marijuana is used in the production of many medicines and that is the market we

“I believe that once the right approach is adopted, ganja has the potential the change the outlook for the Caribbean. Not only will it help with creating agricultural and other high paying jobs but we can actually create a huge industry out of this.” Hermon “Bongo” Lowe have to target, not those who are using it for recreational use. The pharmaceutical industry is using the marijuana extracts for all kinds of medicines and we can produce that industry with the raw material,” he added. The Commonwealth Foundation, in collaboration with the Barbados-based Caribbean Policy Development Centre is hosting the three consultations that are geared towards identifying the impact of the economic and financial crises in the Caribbean, as well as to share information on climate change initiatives. Delegates from the region will also re-

visit and propose alternatives to the ideological underpinnings of current models of development and to forge current partnerships based on common goals and complimentary resources, the organisers said. “This consultation is one of the several civil society consultations, seminars and workshops taking place across the Commonwealth in preparation for the Commonwealth People’s Forum which will form an integral part of the November meeting,” said Seth Lartey, Programme Manager of the Commonwealth Foundation.

Brandt Says County In State Of Crisis BRADES, Montserrat - Opposition Leader David Brandt on Tuesday broke his silence on the unfolding political drama on this British Overseas Territory, describing the country as being in a “state of crisis”. Brandt comments came in a statement broadcast on local radio and mere moments before Governor Peter Waterworth announced that he had dissolved the Legislative Council, paving the way for a general election on September 8. “My people, we are in a state of crisis. Our leaders have disappointed us. Because of them we have great problems,” he said, alluding to the decision by Chief Minister Dr Lowell Lewis to dismiss two members of his Cabinet Economic Development and Agriculture Minister Reuben Meade and Health and Education Minister Roslyn Cassell-Sealy - over the weekend.

“The consequence of what the Chief Minister has done is (to) create serious hardship on the people of Montserrat,” Brandt said, alleging that Lewis was under fire from British officials to axe Cassell-Sealy for some months now and that the Chief Minister resisted simply to prevent his coalition government from collapsing. Brandt, who served as Chief Minister from 1997-2001, said that UK officials threatened to withhold aid to the island unless Lewis satisfied a number of requirements, including releasing Cassell-Sealy, the health and education minister. He also scoffed at suggestions that some legislators, who he said attended a meeting with the Governor on Monday to throw their backing behind Meade to take over as Chief Minister, would, only a day later, agree to play a part in a caretaker government headed by Lewis.

Brandt said that by “going with Mr Meade to support him as Chief Minister, they were saying they have no confidence in Dr Lewis as Chief Minister” and questioned why they would “agree now to support Mr Lowell Lewis as the Chief Minister. “I can not understand that within minutes, our ministers of government would say they have

no confidence in one man and reverse themselves…In the world of business, you have the recycling of or the re-treading of a tyre once but our politicians now have made history, they want to recycle more than once,” Brandt charged. An official announcement is expected later Tuesday on who will be sworn in to replace the fired ministers in the caretaker government

Chief Minister Dr Lowell Lewis dismissed two members of his Cabinet, last weekend.

that will manage the island’s affairs until the general election. Montserrat was thrown into election mode last Friday, when Lewis wrote to the Governor asking him to dissolve the Legislative Council and set September 8 as Election Day. In his letter, the Chief Minister said he was prompted to take such action following a meeting of the Executive Council (the Cabinet) a day earlier where he said it was “quite clear that there is limited support for the actions being taken by the Ministry of Finance” which he heads. “It is my belief that at this critical time, the people of Montserrat should have a say in who manages their country. I believe that my colleagues in government should have the mandate of the people, if they want to determine the future of this country,” Lewis said in the letter.


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Ruling Party Wins Jamaica By-election KINGSTON, Jamaica -– The ruling Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) held on to its four-seat majority in Parliament after it convincingly won the by-election in the North East St. Catherine constituency on Tuesday. Gregroy Mair repeated his 2007 victory by polling 6,329 votes compared to 3,672 for trade unionist Granville Valentine of the main opposition People’s National Party (PNP). PNP's deputy general secretary, Julian Robinson in congratulating the JLP acknowledged that “the people have spoken and they have spoken overwhelmingly in favour of Mr Mair”. Robinson said the party would analyse the results in an effort to inform itself for the way forward. Valentine, a new comer to the politics, said he does not consider the results a loss. “It is the beginning of my political career and the results are things that I can live with. I believe I did very well in the three weeks, and the party workers and myself are satisfied with the work that was put in. I have no intention of leaving North-East St Catherine. I am here for the long term. Despite the election results, I don't believe that Mr Mair has performed that well, but the people have spoken." Director of Elections Orette Fisher said he was satisfied with Tuesday’s poll that had been ordered by the High Court after it disqualified Mair as a legislator because he held Jamaican and Venezuelan citizenship when he was nominated for the 2007 general elections. He has since given up his Venezuelan citizenship. The by-election is the second to be held this year. In March, the JLP's Daryl Vaz was re-elected to the West Portland seat after he, too, was disqualified by the courts for holding both United States and Jamaican citizenship. In the 2007 general election, the JLP won 32 seats as compared to 28 for the PNP in the 60-member Parliament.

PM Golding Calls For Global Initiative To Create 'Real Jobs' GENEVA, Switzerland -- Jamaica on Tuesday called for the establishment of a global development initiative (GDI) that would facilitate private sector investment to provide “real jobs, create real output and build sustainable development” in a changing world environment. Prime Minister Bruce Golding, addressing a “Global Jobs Crisis Summit” organised by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), said that the GDI should incorporate programmes that already exist, while introducing new ones and additional resources. “It must involve a major emphasis on education and training, the transfer of technology, investment-linked infrastructure and a structured programme tied to multilateral loan financing and appropriate investment guarantees to encourage and facilitate private sector investment.” Golding said that developing countries must also play their part through sound fiscal and macroeconomic policies, transparent and accountable government and focused consistent policies. “Within the context of the new global trading arrangements and the still-to-be concluded Doha Round, market access and market asymmetry must be structured to support these new centres of investment, employment and production,” he said. He said that labour market policies must be calibrated within the context of enlightened social dialogue to support this new thrust, warning “sacred cows of the past will have to yield to the pressing imperatives of the present and the brighter prospects for the future. “We are in extraordinary times that call for extraordinary thinking and extraordinary leadership,” Golding said. Organisers said that the three-day summit is providing a “first of its kind” opportunity to discuss policies that are being implemented at the national and international level to address the global jobs crisis. It is being attended by a number of world leaders including Lech Kaczyski, the President of the Republic of Poland, the Brazilian Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, as well as the French President Nicolas Sarkozy. Golding told the summit that the global economic crisis has had a tremendous im-

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Jamaica's Prime Minister Bruce Golding listens to a speech during the Petrocaribe Summit on energy, in Frigate Bay, St. Kitts, Friday. pact on the socio-economic development of the countries like his in the Caribbean adding that many countries were facing the prospects of failing to achieve the Millennium Development Goals such as a reduction in poverty and set by the United Nations for 2015. “Countries that instituted much-needed reforms at huge costs are being deprived of the rewards that suchreforms were designed to bring,” he said, calling for “a fundamentally different approach...rooted in a basic truth...that the world we share is much more than the air we breathe. “Technology and globalisation have turned the vast oceans that separate us into small ponds, distant markets into stalls within the same bazaar and trade the means of communication between people unaccustomed to communicating with each other.” Golding said that the response to the global crisis must “approximate this new conjoined but heterogeneous landscape”,

adding that he would support the recommendation for an integrated and synchronised global action plan involving the multilateral institutions and the developed and developing countries. “We all have to be on the same page pursuing the same agenda. The current practice of meeting in separate rooms discussing the same issue but in exclusive forums will not produce the common strategy that the crisis requires.” Golding said that while delegates to the summit were discussing the crisis and seeking solutions, a similar meeting will take place in the United States next week as well as in September. “Too many cooks don’t necessarily spoil the broth. What is necessary is that they must be cooking in the same kitchen. “The need to reform the global financial system has been widely acknowledged. What should be the shape and content of that reform is where divergent positions emerge. We need urgently to build consensus on the way forward. We need to act assiduously, learning from the misfortunes of the recent past and before the sense of urgency recedes, before we return to business as usual.” Golding said he supports the need to reconfigure the deliberative structure “in whose hands the future direction of the world will rest. “In a globalised world, decisions must be made with global authority and global participation. It is not enough for us to have to achieve emerging market status before we are invited to the table,” Golding said, noting that developing countries account for 37 per cent of global trade. “It is therefore time for a new global planning and decision-making structure that encompasses the developed and the developing world, a structure that encompasses the critical multilateral agencies such as the IMF, World Bank and most definitely, the ILO.” Golding told the summit that the assistance to developing countries must be sufficient and must be flexible to help stabilise the trauma “that countries are suffering from shrinking revenues, crippling debt burden, declining exports, severe curtailment of capital flows and denial of access to credit”.


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LEISURE

* JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR

YOUR WEEKLY HOROSCOPE ARIES (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) Don't confide in any relatives whom you know have a tendency to meddle in other people's affairs. Don't get caught in a triangle. TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) You may want to take extra special care of your luggage if you are traveling this week. Enhance your appearance. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) Make residential changes that will lift your spirits. Don't hold yourself back because you think you're too old. CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22) You will expand your circle of friends if you join groups. Avoid any hassles. Don't hesitate to go ahead with any entertainment plans . LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) New romantic ties can be made; however, you must make sure that your motives are not selfish before you make your move. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) You should be looking at ways to spoil yourself. You will be appreciated for your competence and for taking on responsibilities. LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Don't let the erratic behavior of someone you live with interfere with your professional performance. Keep busy and let them fume. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) Don't let others bait you into arguments. Don't consume more than necessary. Avoid problems with fire, gas, or oil. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Empty promises and a lack of cash may dampen your plans. Don't turn down offers that include sports activities or children. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Accept the inevitable, and opportunities for advancement will follow. Put your efforts into being creative. Don't be afraid to push your beliefs and attitudes.

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Your temper may get the better of you if a colleague has tried to ruin your reputation. Stretch the truth, and you may get blamed for something you didn't do. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Be sure to organize events that will keep the children busy. You will find your vitality is lowered. Your irritability may drive your loved ones crazy.

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... LAUGH A LITTLE

What They Want People To Say At Their Funeral

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Three buddies talking bout if they in they casket and friends and family are mourning over them, what they would like to hear them say 'bout them? The first fella say, "I would like to hear them say that I was a great doctor, and a great family man." The second fella say, "I would like to hear that I was a wonderful husband and school teacher who mek a huge difference in the children of tomorrow." The third fella say, "I would like to hear them say......LOOK DEY, HE MOVING!!!!!"


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ENTERTAINMENT

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Julian Carries On Marley Tradition By Monica Herrera NEW YORK, NY (Billboard) After a six-year hiatus, Julian "JuJu" Marley is back with his third album, "Awake." The Ghetto Youths/Universal release, which he co-produced with his brothers Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley and Stephen Marley, drew inspiration from the spirit of Cedella Marley Booker, their grandmother (and Bob Marley's mother), who died in 2008. Marley spoke to Billboard about maturing as an artist, youthon-youth crime and the family legacy that inspires his music. Billboard: "Awake" is your first album since 2003. Have you been working on it this whole time? Julian Marley: Overall it took me two years to really start and complete it. Before that I was helping out with different Marley family projects, like the Roots Rock Reggae Fest and Africa Unite, and working on Stephen's and Damian's albums. I wrote and recorded "Awake" during the months in between and had input on everything, from the riddims on down. On my first two albums, I was still growing and still unsure about music. I ran into problems where I'd even written songs in a key that wasn't right for me. This time I found my own comfort zone, and the songs are tailor-made. Billboard: What is the concept behind the album? Marley: What's going on in the world right now is a sign of the times -- in Jamaica we say "judgment time." Jobs are gone, there's

Julian "JuJu" Marley violence in the streets, and everything that we want exceeds the money that there is. On the title track I sing, "For many years we have been lost in our tears/For many years the prophets have spoke/And still we can't find no peace of mind/When will we wake?" We need to awaken the mentality of mankind. Billboard: Stephen sings on

"Too Little Too Late," and Damian is featured on "Violence in the Streets." What's it like working so closely with your brothers? Marley: Putting "Too Little Too Late" together with Stephen was a great experience. It was like we were playing a game of soccer. I didn't know what to expect, but I loved how it came out. Jr. Gong and I have done other collaborations,

but "Violence in the Streets" is about how we see the violence in Jamaica, or really anywhere. In England, you have 15-year-olds killing 15-year-olds, and no one understands why. It's because of lack of education. Billboard: How are you promoting the album? Marley: We've been playing new songs from the album live

since April. We did three shows in the U.S. in April, in Mississippi, St. Petersburg (Florida) and the Jazz Fest in New Orleans. Now we're headed back to Jamaica to do a lot of promotional appearances and performances. Billboard: Are you influenced by dancehall and other contemporary offshoots of classic, Marleystyle reggae? Marley: It's all natural. If I'm influenced enough to move my head and dance, then that's enough. The single "Boom Draw" is like street-style dancehall, but downtempo. We're promoting Jamaica on that song. As an artist, I can be inspired by other music -that's how you learn. Billboard: How does your family's influence run through "Awake?" Marley: Our grandmother, Mrs. Booker, passed away while I was making the album, before I had started to record my vocals. I wouldn't say I was influenced by sadness, but "Awake" was born right there. I didn't take a pause with the recording process, because our grandmother was a person who would say, "Everything is all right. You need to do what you have to do." And she might be vexed if you're not doing it. To me, it's like, our ancestors that we love so much -- we're not going to see them again on this side of the fence. The only way I can feel them is through their spiritual energy, the same way that you see God through divine energy. At the end of the day, that energy runs through all of us as brothers.

Harry Gives Peace Props To Wyclef NEW YORK, NY - Eighty-two year-old Jamaican-American recording star, actor and humanitarian, Harry Belafonte, believes he could not pass on the torch in the struggle for peace and human dignity to a better person than Haitian musical adventurer Wyclef Jean - the 2009 ASCAP-Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award recipient. Presenting the award to Wyclef Jean this week at the 2009 WHY (World Hunger Year)Chapin Awards at the Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers in New York City, Belafonte - himself a previous ASCAP Humanitarian Award winner whose contributions to the civil rights, anti-war and anti-apartheid movements are as legendary as his music - saluted the 36 year-old Haitian and fellow Caribbean musician for leveraging the celebrity and activism of himself and his friends for the humanitarian work he does. "Wyclef's greatest contribution can't easily be measured because Wyclef himself has said the greatest accomplishment is giving hope to young kids," noted Belafonte as he educated the audience about the fouryear-old Yéle Haiti nonprofit foundation Wyclef established to bring back hope to his native country. "Yéle Haiti allows kids to dream - they have not dreamt often, and most of the time their dreams have been nightmares. That's what got me here - dreaming," he said. Yéle Haiti helps the poor and underprivileged in Haiti through food distribution, aid

Caribbean Stars: From left: Harry Belafonte, Wyclef Jean and The Mighty Sparrow. for hurricane victims and job creation efforts. Changing the lives of hundreds of thousands of poverty-stricken Haitians through its sustainable development programs, Yéle Haiti partners with established communitybased groups where they exist, and if they don't exist it helps start them. Either way, the focus is to feed the hungry, to fight HIV and AIDS while providing soul sustaining nour-

ishment through the arts and sports programs. Trinidadian Simon Khan, Chief Executive Officer of Antilia, a New York-based Caribbean special events company and entertainment brand that helped promote and produce the Awards, said he was delighted to see Harry Belafonte from Jamaica, Wyclef Jean from Haiti and Slinger "The Mighty

Sparrow" Francisco from Trinidad and Tobago/ Grenada tithe their time last week to put the spotlight on world hunger and the challenges facing the Caribbean nation of Haiti. "This once again goes to show the power of the Caribbean-American Diaspora and what can be done on an international stage when we leverage our talents for good," he said. The Haitian-born Jean, who was heralded throughout the evening for his unselfish, energetic activism in the service of causes that matter, said he was honored to receive the award as he reminisced about his own battle with poverty and struggle to make ends meet while growing up in Haiti. He encouraged humanitarian groups to focus on sustainability when helping the poor: "When you are going to feed a child, remember it's about sustainability - the reality is that you have to give them the (fishing) rod and the boat and they won't come back to you no more." Also honored at the event were Growing Power (Milwaukee, WI), a national nonprofit organization and land trust, WFAN Sports Radio 66, the flagship station for the New York Mets, New York Giants, New Jersey Devils and New Jersey Nets, as well as several 2008 Harry Chapin Self-Reliance Award winners, representing grassroots organizations in the United States that have moved beyond charity to create change in their communities.


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VP Records' Founder To Receive Honor NEW YORK, NY -- WVIP radio host Conroy Alison, founder and CEO of the annual Merritone Outdoor Picnic and Family Fun Day announced recently that business entrepreneur Patricia "Miss Pat" Chin and her family - owners/ operators of VP Records - will be the recipients of the forth annual 'Caribbean American Family of the Year Appreciation Award,' slated to take place at Lake Quassy, Middlebury, Conn., July 12. “My family and I are honored and blessed to be recognized and be a part of this annual event that has grown to mean so much to the community” family matriarch 'Miss Pat' Chin said. "The Chin's are truly an institution in the music industry. They have served as and example to all immigrants, specifically those from the Caribbean. Miss Pat and her husband Vincent started in the music business in the late 50’s in

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Jamaica. Today, VP Records, a company which they started from humble beginnings after moving to the USA is the leading distributor of Caribbean music from artists like Sean Paul, Shaggy, Wayne Wonder, Elephant Man, Mavado, Tanto Metro & Devonte and others who have successfully represented Caribbean culture to a mainstream audience worldwide. The Chin's success proves that hard work, perseverance and determination can move mountains. Individually and collectively, the family has given a great deal to the Caribbean community. They have set a tremendous example for Jamaicans in the Diaspora and are richly deserving of this award" Allison said. While Ms. Pat revels in the good fortune of her company, which has 7 offices (including a showroom for her successful clothing line Riddim Driven), and the creative input of her grandchil-

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dren whom she hopes will carry the family torch for generations to come, she has played a unique role as an entrepreneur, a manager, a producer, a CEO, an all season business woman, who acted as a midwife for every business venture of the VP enterprise. The family joins an elite list of past honorees of the Merritone Family Funday that includes philanthropist Vincent Ho-Sang, CEO of Caribbean Food Delight; broadcaster Jeff Barnes and TV host and founder of Team Jamaica Bickle, Irwine Clare. This year's 'Family fun day' will feature the 'Royal Caribbean Bakery Patty Eating Contest, Karaoke, 25 different rides for children and the "Tri-State Knockout Domino Competition" where teams compete for cash prizes compliments of Western Union. Music will be provided by Merritone Disco featuring Win-

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The ladies pose for a picture prior to cutting the birthday cake.

Stress Free Thursdays Launched On NY Waterway Story & photos by Modupe Gilles

Friends having a good time during Stress Free Thursday, last week.

BROOKLYN, NY -- Brooks Barber & Spa has a special treat awaiting the afterwork crowd by way of “Stress Free Thursdays” Boat Ride near Shea Stadium every Thursday night. The weekly event is off to a running start, and is currently in the third week. Last week’s treat included a smashing birthday and a graduation celebration. According to Althea Alexander, promoter, the venue caters to all special events. “Anyone who wants to celebrate their birthday, graduation, job promotion or any event can call us and register,” she said. “The atmosphere is great and we have a wonderful time on the water.”

The promoter said she launched the event in an effort to help people relax and unwind, prior to the weekend. “The objective is simple and self-explanatory,” said Alexander. “After a long work week, people need to wind down towards the weekend. Brooks Barber & Spa is also offering a discount to Liberty Star readers when you call and mention seeing the advertisement in the newspaper. Free food is included in your ticket price and the boat departs from the World Fair Marina near Shea stadium.” Tickets for the Stress Free Thursdays Boat Ride are available at Brooks Barber & Spa, located at 123-30 Merrick Blvd. in Queens, NY.


JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR *

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SPORTS

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Gayle Glad To End England Cricket Agony By Julian Guyer LONDON, England -- West Indies captain Chris Gayle was a happy man as his side atoned in part for their "disaster tour" of England by going through to the semi-finals of the World Twenty20 at the hosts' expense. Set a revised target of 80 in nine overs, West Indies beat England by five wickets in a rain-affected match at the Oval here on Monday. They won with four balls to spare after a stand of 37 between senior batsmen Ramnaresh Sarwan (19 not out) and Shivnarine Chanderpaul (17 not out) saw them recover from 45 for five. This victory was especially sweet as West Indies had been on the end of drubbings by England in both Test and one-day series earlier in this English season, defeats that called into question their character and commitment. Opening batsman Gayle said: "It was very satisfying. They had had the better of us. "We are happy to be in the semi-final after our disaster tour of England. We wanted to give our supporters something to cheer about. It's been a long hard summer for us, so to be in the semifinal is brilliant." Before they batted, the West Indies held England to 161 for six off 20 overs and Gayle said the home side had paid for a lack of power hitting down the order after star batsman Kevin Pietersen fell for a relatively modest 31. "The game was won and lost in that middle period. They lost Pietersen, they lost crucial wickets at crucial times. They needed a couple of hitters down there would have been really handy. "To restrict them to 161 was a good effort from our bowlers. "We didn't then have the start to our innings we wanted but we couldn't have had a better situation into which to have two experienced batsmen at the crease and they brought it home for us."

Dottin Cracks Record Fifty In Losing Cause For W.I. TAUNTON, England -- Teenager Deandra Dottin hit a recordbreaking half-century on Sunday but the West Indies Women lost their last Group A match against Australia Women in the ICC’s Women’s World Twenty20 World Championship. The powerful 17-year-old raced to 50 from just 22 balls -- the fastest half-century in a Women’s T20 Internationals. Overall the right-handed opener topscored with 53 from 25 balls with nine fours and a six but the West Indies girls faltered afterwards and reached 135-8 off 20 overs. Stafanie Taylor made 13 at the top of the order in an opening stand of 50 with Dottin, while experienced allrounder Cordel Jack hit a polished 24 from 32 balls to make sure there was not a middleorder collapse. Australia replied with 136-2 from 17.2 overs to win by 8 wickets. The West Indies ended the group phase with one win over South Africa and two defeats. They will await the results of upcoming matches to see if they have a chance of reaching the semi-finals.

Jamaican Boxer Beck Returns With Victory

West Indies' Chris Gayle (L) appeals for and gets the wicket of England's Ravi Bopara lbw during the ICC World Twenty20 cricket super eight match at the Oval cricket ground in London on Monday. The West Indies scored 13 runs off both the seventh and eighth overs, bowled by England seamers James Anderson and Stuart Broad, and Sarwan said: "We knew we were one big over from getting to a run-a-ball. "I always believe in myself and my team-mates. The most important thing was that I was calm and I had Shiv at the other end," he added. The Oval has been the scene of some of the West Indies' greatest triumphs in England, including their 2004 Champions Trophy final win over the hosts.

And they could well be back at the south London ground, where they have traditionally enjoyed strong support from the local AfroCaribbean community, for Friday's semi-final. Last year Gayle led the Stanford Superstars, a West Indies side in all but name, to a Twenty20 win over England in Antigua in a match where his team received one million dollars each for their victory. Asked if this was better, a smiling Gayle replied: "Definitely, you are just trying to get me into trouble now."

ROYAL OAK, Michigan – Jamaican heavyweight boxer Owen Beck returned from 19 months of inactivity this past weekend to score a narrow points victory over American Andrew Greeley in a non-title bout. Beck, a former world title contender, escaped with a split decision victory over little-rated Greeley at the Royal Oak Music Theatre on Saturday night. Judges Tim Drwenche and John Parish scored Tennessee-based Beck the winner 77-75 and 78-74, respectively, while Katealia Chambers gave Greeley the verdict 77-75. The result improved Beck’s record Owen Beck to 28 wins (20 knockouts) against three losses, while Greeley’s unimpressive log dipped to 14 wins (eight knockouts) against 28 losses and two draws. The victory for Beck was his third in a row since he unsuccessfully tackled the Russian Nikolay Valuev for the World Boxing Association (WBA) heavyweight title in June 2006. Originally from Jamaica’s west coast town of Negril, Beck built up a solid record that earned him a world title shot. He was unbeaten for 24 fights after turning pro in 1998 and although he lost world title elimination bouts to Americans Monte Barrett and Ray Austin in 2005, he was able to land the WBA title qshot against Valuev, which he lost on a third-round knockout three years ago in Germany.


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Bolt Wins 100m In Rainy Toronto By Steve Keating TORONTO -- Olympic champion Usain Bolt sloshed his way to an impressive win, albeit in an unimpressive time, in his first major 100 meter test of the season at the rain-soaked Toronto Festival of Excellence Thursday. Running in a driving downpour in front of an enthusiastic but drenched crowd, Bolt splashed home in 10 seconds flat, well off his world record 9.69 set at last summer's Beijing Olympics. After two false starts, Bolt trailed badly out of the blocks but rocketed away from the field after 50 meters to cross nearly 10 meters clear of American Shawn Crawford,

Jamaica's Usain Bolt wins the Festival of Excellence Athletics meet at the University of Toronto.

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SUDOKU Solution from Page 18

silver medalist behind the Jamaican in the 200 meters at the Beijing Olympics. "It (the false starts) threw me off a little bit but not much," Bolt told reporters. "I've been there before. "Athletes have good days and bad days. I guess I can put this down as a bad ... I definitely enjoyed it though; I always enjoy it when I run." Crawford, who won 200m gold at the 2004 Athens Games, ran 10.25 to nose out compatriot Ivory Williams on 10.28. Bolt lit up a miserable night for the near capacity crowd of 5,835, some paying a hefty $250 to catch a glimpse of the man who claimed gold in the 100 and 200 meters in world-record times at Beijing, then helped the Jamaican 4x100m relay team to another gold medal.

Lured to the Festival of Excellence by a reported $250,000 appearance fee, Bolt was happy to get through the dangerous conditions and leave Toronto unscathed as he continues his build-up to this summer's world championships in Berlin. "I felt good but I could have done a little better," said Bolt, who set another world best in a 150m street race in similar tricky conditions in Manchester last month. "But it's alright, I got through injury-free and that's a good thing." The 22-year-old Jamaican blew kisses at the crowd before his race, then ran a couple of victory laps around the Varsity stadium after, trailed by a large group of school children and huffing body guards. Bolt is next scheduled to race on June 17 at the Ostrava Grand Prix in the Czech Republic.


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* JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR


JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR *

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* JUNE 18, 2009 * NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR

NEW YORK LIBERTY STAR

SPORTS

OWEN BECK

JAMAICAN BOXER BECK LANDS WIN

P. 24

FULL STORY, SEE PAGE 24 West Indies' Chris Gayle (L) appeals for and gets the wicket of England's Ravi Bopara lbw during the ICC World Twenty20 cricket super eight match at the Oval cricket ground in London, Monday.


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